Taiwan Tati Cultural and Educational Foundation

President Ma Ying-jeou’s (馬英九) administration’s alleged refusal to issue visas to three prominent human rights activists invited to attend the first Asia-Pacific Religious Freedom Forum constitutes a step backwards for a nation that has taken pride in its endeavors to safeguard human rights.

The forum, which opened in Taoyuan yesterday and is set to run through Sunday, offers a platform where leaders of various religions and government representatives can put aside their differences and engage in open dialogue about religious pluralism and human rights.

As President Ma Ying-jeou’s (馬英九) eight years in office draw to a close, the time has come to reflect on the legacy that he leaves behind. Yet strangely, Ma has declared Republic of China (ROC) citizens unqualified to judge his performance.

Faced with a long series of polls showing dissatisfaction with his policies, he always brushed aside his lack of popular support as mere miscommunication. If only he could explain things properly, surely everyone would understand that he has done a superb job.